148 
The impression that obtains in some quarters that botanical re- 
search is already amply provided for in the existing governmental 
bureaus and stations and the botanical departments of our various 
universities led the writer to seek statements on this subject from 
a nuimber of men whose opinion on such a matter should hav- 
weight. These statements are included on pages 182-188 fol- 
lowing. 
The director of the Garden would be glad to correspond or 
confer with anyone who might be interested to learn more of this 
work and to inspect it at first hand with a view to becoming better 
acquainted with its nature and needs. 
C. STUART GAGER. 
BEARDLESS IRIS PROJ Ber 
Scope: 
The study of Beardless Irises is carried out in cooperation with - 
the American Iris Society. The main studies are concerned with 
the Japanese varieties, which are commonly referred to as Iris. 
kaempfert. The project includes : 
1. The identification of varieties and the nomenclature. 
2. Accurate description and illustration of varieties. 
3. Classification based upon color and other features. 
4. Problems in the culture of the Iris, including soil conditions, 
fertilizing, diseases, etc. 
Status: 
The project has involved getting together as complete a collec- 
tion of varieties as possible. During the past years special efforts 
have been made to secure varieties from all available sources. At 
present we have a fairly complete collection upon which to base 
the studies. 
Accurate descriptions and watercolor illustrations of many 
varieties have been made, and some definite information regarding 
their culture is now available. 
Plans: 
In order to complete the study of these Irises it will be neces- 
sary to secure further varieties. Since new ones are being adde 
